How to treat stomach flu

Gastroenteritis commonly causes diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and sometimes fever. The immediate concern is fluid and salt loss rather than forcing food. Most treatment is supportive while the digestive tract settles. Antibiotics are useful only for selected bacterial infections and will not help viral gastroenteritis; do not start leftover medicine. Children and adults with other medical conditions may need individual guidance.

Sip water or an oral rehydration solution regularly. After vomiting, pause briefly, then restart with small amounts. When appetite returns, choose simple foods and advance gradually; avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen symptoms. Rest and wash hands carefully. A pharmacist can advise about anti-vomiting or anti-diarrhoeal treatment, but some products are unsuitable for children, pregnancy, fever or bloody diarrhoea.

Arrange prompt medical advice for ongoing vomiting, worsening diarrhoea, signs of dehydration, persistent fever or abdominal pain, or symptoms that are not improving. Go to urgent care for confusion, fainting, severe pain, blood in vomit or stool, or inability to keep any fluid down. Seek earlier help for babies, older adults and people with weakened immunity.

Ask whether your symptoms need testing, which fluids and medicines fit your health history, and how to recognise dehydration before it becomes severe.